Greenville Technical College trains next generation of aircraft maintenance technicians as industry shortage grows

As the national aviation industry faces a growing shortage of aircraft maintenance technicians, Greenville Technical College is preparing students for high-skill, high-wage aviation careers through its FAA-approved Aircraft Maintenance Technology (AMT) program, which reports a 95% job placement rate.

According to a recent Wall Street Journal report, more than 40% of the nation’s aircraft technicians are nearing retirement, creating urgent workforce needs across the commercial and private aviation sectors. Greenville Tech’s AMT program trains students for immediate employment maintaining and repairing aircraft essential to passenger safety and commerce.

“This is a strong career pathway for students right now, and we’re training the next generation of aircraft technicians to meet employers’ needs,” said Carl Washburn, department head for the Aircraft Maintenance Technology program at Greenville Technical College. “Employers are actively seeking certified technicians, and our graduates are stepping into stable, well-paying careers.”

Many Greenville Tech students receive job offers before graduation, contingent upon FAA certification. The college is a preferred training partner for major employers, including Lockheed Martin, Stevens Aviation, Boeing, PSA Airlines, Delta Air Lines and other commercial and corporate aviation operators. The college works closely with state and regional employers to ensure training aligns with current industry standards.

For Greenville Tech student Jake Dalton, the program offered a focused route into aviation. Dalton began taking AMT courses through Greenville Tech’s dual enrollment program while still in high school and secured his first aviation job before becoming a full-time college student. “Greenville Tech opened the door to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” Dalton said. “Now I’m exactly where I want to be, working in avionics.”

As aircraft maintenance wages continue to rise nationwide, Greenville Tech views the AMT program as both a workforce solution and an economic driver for the Upstate. Graduates consistently move into in-demand positions with strong earning potential and long-term career growth.

“Employers trust the quality of training our students receive, and that confidence translates into job opportunities for our graduates,” Washburn said. “For students looking for a strong return on their education investment, aviation maintenance offers an excellent opportunity for exceptional stability and advancement potential.”

Greenville Tech student Hannah Bermudez is thankful for the opportunity to attend school to pursue a career in the aviation industry while working full-time. “It’s a privilege to enter at a time when the industry is hungry for talent and innovation,” Bermudez said. Bermudez works for the Milliken & Company flight department, which reimbursed her for Airframe and Powerplant licensure and ongoing training. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aviation maintenance management, with the goal of advancing to flight department leadership.

Enrollment in Greenville Tech’s AMT program has doubled over the past five years and remains at or near capacity with approximately 200 students annually. The FAA-approved curriculum and experienced faculty and staff utilize hands-on training using real-world aircraft and industry-standard equipment. The program is also available to Greenville County high school students through dual enrollment.

Graduates are fully prepared to earn FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification and enter a rapidly growing field with strong employment opportunities and earning potential. Greenville Tech’s student FAA pass rate is over 98%.

For more information about Greenville Technical College’s Aircraft Maintenance Technology program, visit www.gvltec.edu/amt/.